Erika Edwards
Hayward,CA
Summary
Resourceful Defensible Space Inspector recognized for high productivity and efficient task completion. Specialize in wildfire risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and community education programs. Excel at communication, problem-solving, and adaptability to ensure safety and compliance in wildfire-prone areas. Bring focused approach to collaborating with property owners and local agencies for effective risk mitigation strategies.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Defensible Space Inspector
CA Dept of Forestry and Fire
Felton, Santa Cruz County, CA
04.2025 - Current
- Conducted inspections of properties to ensure compliance with defensible space standards.
- Monitored changes in state laws or regulations related to defensible spaces and ensured compliance with them.
- Collaborated with community groups on outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about the benefits of creating and managing defensible spaces.
- Investigated complaints from the public regarding potential violations of defensible space codes or regulations.
- Compiled data concerning inspections conducted, violations noted, corrective actions taken into a comprehensive database system.
- Participated in regular meetings with local government representatives and other stakeholders involved in implementing or enforcing defensible space policies.
- Performed follow-up visits after corrective action had been taken by property owners in response to non-compliance notices.
- Developed relationships with key stakeholders such as Fire Chiefs, County Supervisors, Planning Directors who may be able to provide assistance when needed.
- Maintained records of all inspections performed as well as any subsequent actions taken by property owners or other parties.
- Provided training sessions for homeowners on proper maintenance of defensible spaces around their properties.
- Identified high risk situations and took immediate action when necessary.
- Trained new employees regarding emergency response procedures, operational tasks and equipment upkeep.
- Investigated and assessed property damage.
- Protected individuals by restricting public access to areas of high-risk and known hazard.
Defensible Space Inspector (Seasonal)
CA Dept of Forestry and Fire
Red Bluff, Tehama County, CA
04.2023 - 11.2023
- Compiled data concerning inspections conducted, violations noted, corrective actions taken into a comprehensive database system.
- Assisted in developing educational materials about the importance of maintaining adequate defensible spaces around homes and businesses.
- Identified high risk situations and took immediate action when necessary.
- Conducted inspections of properties to ensure compliance with defensible space standards.
- Communicated fire locations, emergency needs and incident details using radios and phones.
- Examined and inventoried firefighting equipment.
- Monitored social media platforms for relevant conversations concerning the organization's brand or mission statement.
- Developed and maintained relationships with media outlets to increase public awareness of department initiatives.
- Authored strategic press releases, interview talking points and media responses.
- Maintained professionality and efficiency while working closely with leadership.
- Fielded media requests and set up staff interviews.
Education
Associate of Science - Fire Technology
Butte College
Oroville, CA05-2017
Bachelor of Science - Fire And Emergency Management
Purdue University
West Lafayette, INSkills
- Defensible space compliance
- Community outreach
- Risk assessment
- Damage assessment expertise
- Data analysis
- Analytics reporting
- Wildfire prevention
- Fire safety education
- Home ignition zone expertise
- Defensible space design
- Fire prevention
- Stakeholder engagement
- Fire safety inspections
Certification
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Damage Inspection Specialist
- Public Information Officer (T)
- Fire Inspector I
- Basic 32 Wildland
- CPR
- Hazmat First Responder Operations
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Defensible Space Inspector
CA Dept of Forestry and Fire
04.2025 - Current
Defensible Space Inspector (Seasonal)
CA Dept of Forestry and Fire
04.2023 - 11.2023
Associate of Science - Fire Technology
Butte College
Bachelor of Science - Fire And Emergency Management
Purdue University
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